The Three Chimigos
The heart of Robin's Nest traces back to three Chihuahuas — Lily, Alberto, and Julio. Their legendary bond inspired songs, stories, a children's book series, and the founding of Robin's Nest Rescue.
Where It All Began
The Heart Behind Robin's Nest
Lily, Alberto and Julio remain forever in our hearts, watching over Robin's Nest.
Some sanctuary residents still walk the paths of Robin's Nest. The Three Chimigos walk beside us differently — from the Rainbow Bridge.
The Three Chimigos are anything but conventional. Their story is the beginning of Robin's Nest Rescue — its legend, its legacy, and its heart.
The spirit of Robin's Nest can be traced back to three small but mighty rescue dogs who changed everything: Lily, Alberto, and Julio.
It began in 2010, when Kimber met Lily, a spirited Chihuahua mix at the San Diego Humane Society. That single encounter became life-changing, opening the door to what would one day grow into Robin's Nest Rescue. Soon after came Alberto — a gentle blonde boy carrying the scars of past abuse — and Julio, a soulful black Chihuahua with a limp and an unshakable joy for life.
Together, they became The Three Chimigos.
More than beloved companions, they shaped the compassion, connection, and purpose that define Robin's Nest to this day. Their legacy lives on throughout the sanctuary, reminding us that the smallest souls often leave the deepest imprint.
Their story has inspired songs, stories, and even a children's book series — including “The Robin's Nest Song” by singer-songwriter Ashley E. Norton.
Their place is here. Their place is everywhere.
And through their memory, we hold fast to the truth that guides all we do:
We rescue them. They save us.
Lily
Lily was the Matriarch. Larger in spirit and size than her brothers, she was the original greeter, caretaker, and center of the pack. (c. 2008 – April 21, 2025)
Julio
Julio was a little gimpy-legged black Chihuahua, reportedly hard to adopt out. To us, it was simple — he completed us. The third of The Three Chimigos. (c. 2012 – March 23, 2023)
Alberto
To some, Alberto could be a puzzle: shy yet fierce, tiny yet strong, cautious yet deeply tender. But to those in his inner circle, he was unforgettable. (c. 2011 – August 4, 2024)